Rhizopus rot is a fungal disease that affects jackfruit trees, causing extensive damage to the fruits, leading to high economic losses for jackfruit farmers. If not controlled effectively, this disease can severely impact the quality and yield of the fruit. In this article, we will discuss some effective methods to control rhizopus rot of jackfruit.
1. Good farm management practices: Proper farm management practices such as pruning of infected parts of the tree, improvement of soil drainage, and ensuring adequate air circulation can help control rhizopus rot. This is because the fungal spores thrive in damp and humid conditions, so reducing moisture reduces the incidence of the disease.
2. Use of fungicides: Systemic and contact fungicides can be applied to the tree to control the disease. However, it is important to ensure that the fungicides used are safe for human consumption.
3. Use of biological methods: Some biological methods have been proven effective against rhizopus rot. The use of Trichoderma and Bacillus subtilis strains has been shown to suppress the growth and development of the disease. The application of these strains can be done by mixing with soil or water, or by foliar spraying.
4. Harvesting at the right stage: Harvesting the fruit at the right stage can also help control the disease. The fruit should be harvested when it is fully mature but before it becomes overripe. Overripe fruit is more susceptible to rhizopus rot, so harvesting the fruit at the right time can minimize the incidence of the disease.
In conclusion, the effective control of rhizopus rot of jackfruit requires a combination of good farming practices, the use of fungicides, and the application of biological methods. Farmers should also be vigilant when monitoring the tree for signs of the disease so that they can take appropriate measures in a timely manner. With proper control, farmers can protect their crops from rhizopus rot and improve their yield and income.